Date: Wednesday, 24 July 2024
As the peloton wound its way through the diverse landscapes of France from the Italian start in Turin, Girmay’s journey unfolded with a mix of skill and determination. Each day brought new challenges, each stage a test of his mettle against the world’s best.
It was in Turin that Girmay first showed his mettle. In a frantic bunch sprint, he emerged victorious, his arms raised in triumph. This was not just a stage win; it was a moment of great significance: the first stage win for a black African rider in the 121-year history of the Tour.
But Girmay wasn’t content to rest on his laurels. The rolling hills of Colombey-les-deux-Églises and the sun-drenched roads of Villeneuve-sur-Lot also bore witness to his prowess. Three stage wins, each a testament to his sprinting prowess and the dedication of his team.
Perhaps the most enduring image of this Tour is that of Girmay in the green jersey. For sixteen days he wore this coveted symbol of the points classification, defending it with a mix of tactical acumen and brute speed against seasoned competitors. In doing so, he not only secured the first jersey in a general classification for Intermarché-Wanty in a Grand Tour, but also became the first African rider to claim the green jersey.
As the race finished on the Promenade des Anglais in Nice, the significance of Girmay’s achievement began to resonate. This was not just a personal triumph; it was a moment that transcended sport, inspiring cyclists across Africa and beyond.
Girmay himself seemed to grasp the magnitude of the moment. "My adventure in this Tour opens a new chapter in the history of cycling, for us Eritreans and Africans," he reflected. "We've been cycling for a long time, but winning stages and a green jersey, it's possible now. It's something special."
It is indeed remarkable. In a sport often dominated by European cyclists, Girmay’s success is a reminder of cycling’s global appeal and its power to inspire across continents.
